HOPE OF THE STATES GUITARIST FOUND DEAD

Police were called to the Real World studios near Bath in the early hours of this morning after Lawrence was found hanged. The death is not being treated as suspicious.

A spokesperson for the local police told NME.COM today: “We can confirm that shortly before 4.30am Wiltshire Police were called to Real World Studio where the body of 26 year old James Lawrence had been discovered by other members of the group.”

A statement issued by the studio reads: “Everyone at Real World enjoyed working with James. He was a very talented musician and a pleasure to be with. We will all miss him greatly and our thoughts and heartfelt sympathy are with his family and friends.”

Hope Of The States were due to release their anticipated debut album in late spring after months spent recording in Russia and then Ireland. The finishing touches were being put on the album at Real World this month.

The Chichester six-piece, who signed to Sony imprint Seeker following an intense bidding war, have been working with Sigur Ros producer Ken Thomas.

The band were due to finish recording in late January, with a single expected in late February, followed by the album later in the spring.

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